Interview With Barry McManus Co-founder Of London Electronic Music Event

LEME takes place 12th – 13th April at Rich Mix, Shoreditch. Tickets available at http://www.londonelectronicmusicevent.com

Tell us about LEME? What did inspire you to start?

London Electronic Music Event is the UK’s first annual electronic music conference – it’s essentially weekend of music production workshops, industry panels, artist keynotes, live performances and networking sessions for anyone involved in electronic music, from bedroom producers to the world’s biggest labels.

LEME came about because it seemed crazy that a city like London, which has such a strong electronic music heritage and a fertile scene, didn’t have a forum for everyone to meet up and talk about it – everyone was heading to ADE or IMS to get involved.

It felt to me that London needed it’s own conference to put the focus on the great things going on here and the UK in general.  The response from the industry has been great – everyone is excited that there’s now an event focussed on fostering the UK scene.

IMG_8322_LOW.1

What is unique about LEME?

It’s not a boring trade show, expo or business conference focussing on selling.  It’s a varied and interactive event that reflects the 360 nature of the industry today.  You can learn to make better music from leading producers but you can also learn about running a label, distribution, retail, media, PR and more from high profile industry professionals.  It’s about bringing people together to share, learn and talk about the music we love.

Why do you choose Shoreditch to do this?

It’s an area that’s always had an affinity with electronic music, from Goldie’s Metalheadz parties at Blue Note in Hoxton Square during the mid 90s, Fabric opening in Smithfields in 99 through to the likes of XOYO and The Nest today, I makes sense to place LEME at the heart of that.

Who/what are your favorite Artists/Businesses in the area?

That’s a tough one but Kris Wadsworth is probably my favourite producer so to have him speaking at LEME is really exciting.  On the industry side of things, it’s hard to choose – we’ve got experts from all over the place – but I’m excited about our clubs panel with Bloc, Electric Minds/The Hydra and XOYO – three key players in London nightlife.

What are your favorite places in Shoreditch?

If I’m hungry, I’ll have a salt beef bagel from Brick Lane – it’s the best meal in London for less than a fiver.

If I’m thirsty I’ll go for a drink the Carpenter’s Arms on the far end of Cheshire Street – lovely little boozer tucked out of the way.

What does the future have in store for LEME?

After LEME 14 we’ll be expanding into regular monthly events dotted around London to showcase the interesting and innovative people from across the music industry.

Social links:

Twitter: @LEME_2014

Facebook: londonelectronicmusicevent

Website: www.londonelectronicmusicevent.com